Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Delve into Venetian history on a tour showcasing the city's most iconic structures—St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace—as an expert guide sheds light on the stories behind both iconic attractions. Skip the line into the legendary St. Mark's Basilica, where you’ll wander through the mosaic-clad interior and even step onto the balcony overlooking Piazza San Marco—reserved for only a select few! Then, continue to the Doge's Palace and step into the political heart of a powerful empire.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
Due to the religious nature of St. Mark's Basilica, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. You can bring extra covering (scarves, etc) to put on just before entering St. Mark's. Walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry.
Sites visited during this tour are subject to occasional closures due to holy observances, high tides, and/or flooding. If a site closes, your guide will tour the exterior of the site. If time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. If the local municipality restricts access due to high tide and there are no walkways available, it is the client’s responsibility to bring appropriate footwear (e.g., boots). For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
No refund will be provided if high tide prevents certain parts of the tour, but adjustments to the route will be made for client safety and comfort.
If access is restricted due to private events inside St. Mark's Basilica and/or Doge's Palace, we cannot be held responsible. This is a situation beyond our control. No refund will be issued.
This tour is non-refundable. All guests must supply their full name and date of birth that matches a valid ID at the time of the booking. Should you fail to provide these, your reservation will be canceled. Please note that a photo ID is required to visit the St. Marks Basilica. Name changes are not permitted.
Due to limited terrace ticket availability, access to the Pala d'Oro (Golden Altar) will be offered on select dates instead. This adjustment ensures you avoid long queues and still enjoy the basilica’s most treasured highlights during peak seasons.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Pre-reserved ticket to the Doge's Palace (25 €)
Local English-speaking guide
Exclusive access to St. Mark's Basilica terraces
Exclusive Early Entry to the Doge's Palace (8 AM only)
Skip-the-line ticket for St. Mark's Basilica (St. Marks Basilica + Museum 15€)
Headsets when necessary
Gratuities
Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off
Lunch
Piazza San Marco
Begin in the world-famous St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) and take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking space laid out in front of you. Your guide will lay the foundation for your experience, setting the scene of centuries of Venetian history under the famed arched portico.
Basilica di San Marco
Get special access into the pristine St. Mark’s Basilica, skipping past the long lines and straight into its opulent interior. Wander beneath the mosaics in the company of a local guide who’s especially skilled at reviving the past through storytelling and expert knowledge. Marvel at the mosaics and more of the basilica’s treasures, then take a walk out onto the balcony for a once-in-a-lifetime view overlooking Piazza San Marco, the Doge's Palace, and the Venetian lagoon.
Explore Venice’s top attractions—St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace—on a private guided tour.
Small Group: Explore Venice’s top attractions—St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace—Exclusive Doge's Palace Early Entry - 8 AM only
4,887 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Michele S,
Jun 30, 2025
- Viator
The company changed the St Marks Basilica portion of the indoor tour to an outdoor tour... They did offered a different day... Luckily I was able to do that because I tried to cancel and I got the run around. Probably won't deal with viator again ... But kudos to "Barbara"!! I was very impressed with the information and explanation of every aspect of this tour.
Tiffany H,
Jun 29, 2025
- Viator
Highly recommend. Alessandro was excellent and informative. Being able to skip the lines was definitely worth it. Hardest part was actually finding the group which was difficult.
Girish H,
Jun 27, 2025
- Viator
Fantastic experience-my boys (3 and 8) were being as uncooperative as ever during the trip but the guide, Georgia, was excellent and very accommodating. Very informative-would highly recommend…
Barbara M,
Jun 27, 2025
- Viator
This guided tour includes a lot of explanations about the history and it is very interesting to understand why and how these two great monuments were built. However, you have to have a high enough level of English to be able to grasp everything that was not my case. As English is not my mother tongue, I unfortunately did not understand everything that the guide explained... I think Viator should offer this tour in other languages, especially French, since there is a lot of historical information that requires a good understanding of the language.
Maithili S,
Jun 27, 2025
- Viator
Great tour with just the right amount of information provided! Guide was very good and with excellent English.
Operated by Walks - Italy & Spain